Water sports & diving costs

Most beach resorts sit in a reef-protected lagoon that is calm and suits beginners, but the coral is usually modest; the better reefs and marine life are at marine parks and dive sites reached by boat. The lagoon is calmest on the west and north coasts, and the southeast trades in winter make the east and south choppier.

Kayaks, paddleboards (SUP), windsurfers and small sailing boats are lent free at most resort water-sports centres, with the choice depending on the wind that day.

Yoga and other group classes are mostly free (private coaching extra); the gym and main pool are at no extra charge.

Many resorts run a weekly sega music-and-dance evening or Creole buffet — the easiest free taste of local culture; days and content follow each resort’s programme.

Trips to marine parks such as Blue Bay in the southeast, and to the reefs around the northern islets, usually offer better coral and fish than the resort lagoon; departure times follow the weather and tide.

Mauritius offers wrecks, walls and drift dives — the north (around Coin de Mire and Flat Island) and the west and southwest are the main areas; the calmest, clearest conditions are usually in the transition months and the west. Gear rental is normally extra.

Packages of 3–10 dives are common; if you plan to dive a lot, buy one package. Validity and whether gear is included depend on the shop’s rules.

Uncertified guests can start with a discover-scuba session (usually in the lagoon); certification courses take longer, so on a short trip finish the theory at home.

A very common day out: from the east coast to Île aux Cerfs, or from the north to Île d’Ambre and the islets around Gunner’s Quoin; most include snorkelling, beach time and lunch. Choose the side of the island that matches the day’s sea.

Popular from Tamarin and Black River, usually a morning boat trip to see dolphins and perhaps snorkel. Sightings are likely but not guaranteed, and please choose an operator that follows the rules on keeping distance and not chasing animals.

A classic full-day tour of the island’s interior and south: the Chamarel coloured earths and waterfall, Black River Gorges National Park and the Grand Bassin sacred lake. Weather in the uplands can change quickly, and entrance fees may be extra.

A half-day of culture: Port Louis central market, the Caudan Waterfront and the Pamplemousses garden. Go in the morning and dress modestly; check opening days before you set out.

The UNESCO-listed Le Morne mountain has a well-known summit hike with panoramic views over the lagoon; start early, bring plenty of water, and go with a licensed guide, as access can be restricted.

An evening cruise for the sunset or a chartered big-game fishing trip (catch-and-release rules vary by operator) is a very common paid add-on.

Le Morne is one of the Indian Ocean’s best-known kite and windsurf spots; the steadiest wind runs from about June to September, and schools give lessons for beginners through advanced. In calm months the wind may be too light.

Parasailing, jet skis, banana boats and undersea walks; some resorts and protected waters do not allow motorised sports, and the widest choice is in the north and west.

A common paid add-on for proposals and honeymoons; book ahead by email through the resort concierge and confirm what is included.